Kennedy House site favoured by councillors as leash-free area
Jun 19, 2009 - 03:37 PM
By Jeff Hayward
UXBRIDGE -- The preferred location for a proposed dog park in Uxbridge has been unleashed.
Councillors on June 15 reviewed three sites for a leash-free dog park, an idea of resident Todd Chisholm, supported by Joanne McClory. Of the three properties -- Quaker Village Commons Kennedy House, and a Township-owned parcel of land off Concession 7 -- Kennedy House won over councillors for access to parking. Also, while fencing for the two-acre park was priced at $15,000, Councillor Jack Ballinger suggested existing fencing at Kennedy House on Main Street North can be moved to enclose the area.
"A temporary fence is an option," added Bob Ferguson, Uxbridge's parks and facilities manager, who has been assisting Mr. Chisholm with the logistics of the project.
Earlier this year, the two proponents of the canine park put a call out to determine how many others would support the idea. Mr. Chisholm told councillors June 15 that 230 people responded.
Some councillors during the most recent discussion had concerns about long-term maintenance costs of the park, and whose shoulders the expenses would fall upon. A membership fee to use the facility is one idea on the table, said Mr. Ferguson, with Mr. Chisholm noting a "visual tag" could indicate which dogs and owners are registered to use the park.
Mr. Chisholm said his next step is to meet with park supporters to discuss membership fees and a fundraiser, the latter to address any immediate costs of the park. The goal is to have the facility in place this summer, but he acknowledged, "it's going to be tough" to meet that timeline.
He first pitched the idea to councillors in late 2008, explaining he'd like to attach rules to the park, such as requiring users to clean up after their pets. He said in the case of "aggressive" dogs, "it's up to the owner's discretion" to take them to the park. But he said he has studied other canine parks, and "I've seen dogs being socialized".
Meanwhile, Ingrid Svelnis, chief administrative officer, recently said the Township has received complaints regarding dogs running at large in Elgin Park.
"You never know what can happen if the dogs get beyond the reach (of the owner)," said Ms. Svelnis.
Elgin Park was also originally mentioned as a possible site, but was shot down by councillors as many events are held there during the summer months.
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